From folk songs from anonymous composers to Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig Van Beethoven, on a rainy spring Sunday afternoon, students of The Guitar Dojo in Durango shared their talents with friends and family at its Spring Guitar Concert.
The Guitar Dojo is a Suzuki-talent education school. Students learn by repetition, practice and a nurturing environment. Founder of the methodology Shin’ichi Suzuki believed that anyone could learn to be an accomplished musician. Dojo director Ruth Cutcher used the method, even teaching children younger than 3-years-old.
Backstage at the Smiley Building, the energy vibrated like a plucked string as performers waited their turn to take the stage.
Amiah Hanson says music sooths the toughest emotions.
“One thing is that music calms me down when I’m angry, and it’s just fun to play,” she said after a Bach selection on guitar and a violin accompaniment played by Darlene Holland.
Jackson Orndorf, 7, said he likes the “being on stage” part. He played several selections with his sister, Ava, 11. Their mom, Shanan was helping backstage, whispering directions and sending young musicians out on cue. Notebooks and instruments were scattered about, lining the walls.
As cold drizzle fell on old-fashioned windows, inside, melodies filled the historic school.
Ava Orndorf was beaming before her next performance. She admitted she liked the attention but also the art itself.
“I like how music is just really, really beautiful,” she said.
bmathis@durangoherald.com